Paddy Power Betfair names new Europe and Australia CEOs

Paddy Power Betfair has named new chief executives for its European and Australia divisions, marking the first significant move from new CEO Peter Jackson since taking the reins on Monday.

Dan Taylor has been promoted to the newly-created role of chief executive officer for Europe, while Barni Evans will take over as CEO of Australian subsidiary Sportsbet.

Taylor, who was previously managing director of the UK & Ireland operations, will be responsible for the Paddy Power and Betfair brands across all channels and geographies outside of the USA.

Kip Levin will continue to lead the US operations.

Elsewhere, Barni Evans has been promoted from his existing role as Sportsbet’s chief commercial officer, to the top job.

He replaces Cormac Barry, who has led the Sportsbet business since it was acquired in 2009, and has decided to step down to pursue a career outside of the industry.

PPB said Evans had “played a key role in Sportsbet’s success over the last seven years and is ideally qualified to lead the business”.

Barry will work with Evans over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition.

Barclays analyst Patrick Coffey noted the departure of Cormac Barry from Sportsbet was disappointing with Barry viewed as a “fantastic operator”.

However Coffey added he had been “hugely impressed” by his encounters with replacement Barni Evans.

“He has a natural enthusiasm for the industry, understands how to build a brand, knows what customers want from a sports betting brand and is excellent in conveying his views. We do not think this appointment hinders any potential M&A in Australia,” Coffey noted.

The analyst also said the appointment of Dan Taylor should streamline a complex European reporting structure at PPB.